New YPN manager hopes to reach larger, more diverse crowd

Sioux Falls Business Journal |
Argus Leader

6:03 am CDT September 26, 2016

This week’s Monday Q&A features Kayla Scholten, the new Young Professionals Network, or YPN, manager for the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. She is an Inwood, Iowa, native and a recent graduate of Dordt College.

Kayla Scholten is the YPN manager for the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.

Submitted photo

Question: What are you most looking forward to about your new role with YPN?

Answer: This is an easy question — the people. Already in my first few weeks in the position, I've met some pretty great people who play influential roles in the city of Sioux Falls. I'm excited to broaden my network and to help others broaden theirs as well.

Q: What are some of the ways you're hoping to grow YPN?

A: I'm very blessed to be joining a YPN that is very well-established and connected to its community. I think in order to grow YPN, it's important to be creative and think outside of the box when it comes to events. I hope to be able to reach a larger, more diverse set of people by offering events that fit people's lifestyle, career and schedule.

Q: What do you think people might be surprised to learn about YPN?

A: A lot of people think that Young Professional Networks are just for handing out business cards and making business connections — we are more than that. A lot of lifelong friendships and connections are made through YPN, and while we do offer events that are geared toward professional and personal development, we have a lot of events that are just for fun, too.

Q: What motivates you to be active in your community or profession?

A: I feel as though God has called me to be a leader and role model in my community, and being the YPN manager allows me to fulfill that calling daily. I'm excited to get to know more people in Sioux Falls and build lasting relationships.

Q: Do you have a certain service organization or charity you like to support?

A: In the past, I've volunteered with my church at The Banquet, which is something that I'd love to do more now that I'm living in town. I think The Banquet does a great job of serving those who are hungry right here in our community, and I appreciate how they do it with love and sincerity.

Q: What do you do for fun?

A: In my senior year of college, I got into the sport of CrossFit, and it's become an obsession of mine. I love being challenged by something new every workout, and I love the community aspect that CrossFit has no matter what gym you're in. Also in my spare time, I enjoy playing the piano, shopping and hanging out with my family.

Q: What do you like about living in Sioux Falls?

A: I've only lived in Sioux Falls for a few weeks now, and it already feels like home. I love how there is always something going on, and the people are friendly no matter where you go. I'm excited to explore more of downtown and visit some of the places that make Sioux Falls unique.

Q: What can Sioux Falls do to attract more young professionals?

A: I think Sioux Falls is already doing a great job at attracting young professionals — hence why I'm here. Organizations like YPN allow for young professionals to feel welcomed into the community and offer them a plethora of connections that can help them better transition into their careers.

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